Meet Carmen, our next Legend Athlete!
Past Legends have included “The Grant,” and “The Ben.” These, and now “The Carmen” are special, limit-pushing workouts designed to be intense and unforgettable; highlighting our incredible Athletes.
Carmen was an avid Cross-Fit athlete before moving to Denver from Austin, TX. A former collegiate athlete, she still competes, and finding Alchemy offered a way to elevate her training and build community in a new city.
We have a special Barbell workout in store, but first, read on about her experience and how Alchemy helps her stay competitive, and enjoy all the activities Denver has to offer!
1. When did you first start coming to Alchemy, and why did you decide to join?
I joined Alchemy in August 2022, and after just a couple trial classes, I was completely hooked! Discovering Alchemy (on Instagram!) was finding exactly what I needed at just the right time – it brought a fresh energy and focus to my fitness journey.
2. What keeps you coming back to Alchemy? Why do you like training here?
First and foremost, I love the camaraderie amongst the Alchemy members and coaches. Classes are never short on high fives and encouragement. Before Alchemy, I spent seven years doing CrossFit while living in Austin. But when we moved to Denver, I realized it was time for a change and something new. Alchemy offers me everything I loved about CrossFit – the dynamic movements and exhilarating feelings – but with a fresh, more focused approach that elevates my training experience. As an athlete growing up and through college, I’m also a competitor (as my fellow Barbell friends know!), I love to push and compete against myself, others, the clock, the weights…all of it. The challenge keeps me coming back!
3. How has Alchemy helped you towards any goals you have, whether fitness related or outside the studio?
Alchemy has kept me strong and active, enabling me to build on the progress I made during my CrossFit years. I’ve even continued to compete in various challenges. Outside the gym, it’s given me the strength and energy to fully enjoy everything I love about Colorado – snowboarding, mountain biking, hiking…to sipping Aperol spritzes on a sunny patio!
4. Do you have any future goals or aspirations you’re working toward?
Right now I’m focused on staying fit and healthy by listening to my body and what works best for me. I want to keep pushing the boundaries of what I can achieve, both in the gym and in my everyday life.
5. What recommendations you would give to someone who’s never tried Alchemy?
If you’re on the fence about trying Alchemy, I’d say go for it! The community is incredibly supportive, and the workouts are challenging yet adaptable for any fitness level. Whether you’re looking to stay strong, push your limits, or just find a new way to stay active, Alchemy offers something for everyone. Plus, the variety in classes keeps things fresh and fun. It’s definitely worth giving t a shot – you might just get hooked like I did!
THE CARMEN
Barbell
Warm up:
With a light Torpedo:
- 5 Power Cleans + 5 Front Squats
Free for all – hip grind, half splits, thread the needle etc. - 5x Power Cleans + Front Sqaut – beginning to feel what it’s like to string the two movements together
- Free for all – hip grind, half splits, thread the needle etc.
- 5 Squat Cleans
Lift:
3-5 Working sets:
Squat Clean Complex:
1 From the Floor + 2 From the Hang
Core:
Accumulate 50 Weighted Dead Bugs during the lifting portion
Conditioning:
21-15-9:
2xTorp Hang Squat Cleans
Box Dips
You can find Carmen Pursuing her Legend in Alchemy LoHi or RiNo. Outside the studio, you can find her spending time with her husband and dog, playing volleyball, snowboarding, mountain biking, reading, enjoying an Aperol spritz or dirty martini on a patio somewhere, and trying to perfect her cheesecake recipe!
